Massachusetts RN License Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Registered Nurse in Massachusetts
1 Education Requirements
Minimum Degree
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Requirements
- Complete an approved pre-licensure nursing program
- Program must be approved by state board or equivalent
- Foreign-educated nurses must have GMC evaluation (minimum 8 weeks processing)
Graduate from a state-approved nursing education program
2 NCLEX-RN Examination
Exam Name
NCLEX-RN
Administered By
Pearson VUE
Passing Standard
Pass/Fail (Adaptive)
Tip: Register for the NCLEX through Pearson VUE after receiving your Authorization to Test (ATT) from the state board.
Need NCLEX-RN prep? Archer Review has a affordable prep, high pass rate.
3 Background Check
4 Fees
Initial Licensure
| Application Fee | $230 |
| Examination Fee | $200 |
| Fingerprinting | $35 |
| Total | $465 |
Total includes application ($230), NCLEX ($200), and background check ($35). Massachusetts joined NLC in 2025.
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | $120 |
Continuing Education Requirements
Required Topics
- • General Nursing CE: 15 hours
State Board of Nursing
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NLC Implementation Pending
Massachusetts has enacted the Nurse Licensure Compact but implementation is pending. Once implemented, nurses will be able to obtain multistate licenses.
Learn about the NLC →Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 4 official sources • Last verified: January 2025